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Lucy Creagmile’s Digital Journey into Teaching
For generations, teaching has been a family tradition for Lucy Creagmile. Following both her mum and nana into the profession, the 22-year-old is just weeks away from beginning her first teaching role at a grammar school in County Down.
While the values of education remain the same, the classroom Lucy is about to enter looks very different from those experienced by the generations before her. For today’s new teachers, digital skills are no longer an optional extra, they are essential.
Determined to be future-ready from day one, Lucy completed the Mastering the Digital Classroom Digital Skills Academy, a collaboration between Belfast Met and Stranmillis University College. The academy forms part of the Digital Skills and Employability Programme, sponsored by Bank of America, and equips participants with the practical skills needed to thrive in modern learning environments.
Through the programme, Lucy gained hands-on experience with a wide range of digital tools, from Adobe software to emerging AI technologies, helping her build the confidence and capability to support learners in an increasingly technology-driven world.
Reflecting on her experience, Lucy said: “It doesn't matter what subject you're teaching, or even the age group. Having a firm grip on developments in technology is a must because, as teachers, we can't afford to be left behind. This academy opened my eyes to a whole new world and highlighted just how quickly and dramatically things can change in the digital space, and will continue to do so. We gained valuable hands-on experience with Adobe and AI tools, alongside a clear understanding that ongoing professional development will be a non-negotiable throughout my career if I want to keep pace with my students.”
As Lucy prepares to step into her first classroom, she represents a new generation of educators who recognise that teaching excellence and digital confidence go hand in hand. By embracing technology from the very start of her career, she is ready to inspire, engage and empower learners for the future.
Investing in teachers today means empowering learners for tomorrow.
Find out more about the Digital Skills and Employability Programme: https://www.belfastmet.ac.uk/support-for-business/digitalskills
